20 Fascinating Facts About Marrakesh: The Red City of Morocco

20 Fascinating Facts About Marrakesh: The Red City of Morocco

Known for its terracotta walls and buildings, Marrakesh is also known as the “Red City” and is one of Morocco’s most visited tourist sites. This brilliant city gives tourists and locals in the country a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history and culture. Visitors always get enthralled with Marrakesh’s abundance of sights and experiences, which range from its vibrant medina marketplace to its breathtaking architecture.

We will get to know more about the city’s origins in 1062 and how it has evolved throughout the years under different kings. Explore the fine features of notable landmarks including Djemaa el Fna Plaza, Bahia Palace, and the Koutoubia Mosque. Learn about the customs around food, music, and crafts in the area.

Discover the significance of the city’s nickname, how its topography and climate influence its personality, and other fascinating facts about this city. This article presents some of the most fascinating facts about Marrakesh’s people, places, culture, and history, whether you’re thinking about visiting or just want to learn more about this well-known location.

1. Marrakesh is One of Morocco’s Former Imperial Cities

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Along with Fes, Meknes, and Rabat, Marrakesh is one of Morocco’s four former imperial towns. Marrakesh was the capital city of Morocco for centuries after it was founded in 1062 by the Almoravid dynasty. Renowned Djemaa el-Fna, a vast square teeming with snake charmers, healers, musicians, and food vendors, serves as its symbolic center. Close by is the magnificent 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque, a prime example of Almohad building design.

Souks brimming with traditional products including pottery, leather goods, and textiles line the medina. The historic palaces and gardens of Marrakesh exhibit influences from both Morocco and Islam. Marrakesh is a portal to Morocco’s rich cultural legacy because it was once an imperial metropolis. Its vistas and lanes transport visitors to the past of the country.

2. The City was Founded in 1062

Numerous stone tools have been found in the Marrakesh region, which was once home to Berber farmers in the Neolithic era. Abu Bakr ibn Umar, a leader and the second cousin of Yusuf ibn Tashfin, the Almoravid monarch, built Marrakesh and ruled from 1061–1106.

Several historical sources give different dates for the founding of the city with Muhammad al-Idrisi indicating it to be 1078. According to Ibn Abi Zar and Ibn Khaldun’s Hijri calendar, the city was founded in 1062 (454). However, some writers still reference 1062, while current historians most frequently use 1070.

3. Marrakesh’s Name Means “Land of God”

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Several things about this enchanted desert city can be learned from the word Marrakesh’s origin. The name of Marrakesh can be traced back to the Almoravid dynasty, who built the city in 1062. The Amazigh (Berber) word “Mur (n) Akush,” which translates to “Land of God,” is where linguists trace it.

The site’s beauty and fertility, along with its proximity to the High Atlas Mountains, are perhaps the reasons the Almoravids gave it its name. With its arid environment and rugged surroundings, Marrakesh has acquired its status as an oasis. The name of the city suggests heavenly blessings pouring into a dry land.

Another interpretation of Marrakesh is “mother of the Earth,” alluding to its capacity to sustain life. The city’s historical name still conveys its mystique and attraction to tourists from all over the world.

4. The Almoravid Monarch Built the City

The Almoravids were a Berber dynasty that governed an emirate that stretched from the Atlantic coast to Algiers and from the edge of Senegal to the heart of Spain. Their goal was to modernize Islamic civilization.

With Marrakesh as their capital, they built the city’s initial buildings, which included mosques and the Ksar al-Hajjar, a fortified home located close to the current Kutubiyya Mosque. The city’s plan and urban structure were likewise impacted by these Almoravid foundations for centuries to come.

5. Marrakesh is an Oasis of Rich Plant Variety

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Marrakesh is an oasis of abundant plant variety, with 130,000 hectares of vegetation and over 180,000 palm trees in its Palmeraie. Fragrant orange, fig, pomegranate, and olive trees showcase their hues and fruits at Agdal Garden, Menara Garden, and other urban gardens as the seasons change.

Alongside other species that have been brought over the ages, the city’s gardens are home to a multitude of native plants. These species include huge bamboos, yuccas, papyrus, palm trees, banana trees, cypress, philodendrons, rose bushes, bougainvilleas, pines, and several types of cactus plants.

6. The City Experiences a Hot Semi-arid Climate with Mild to Cool Winters

The climate in Marrakesh is hot and semi-arid (Köppen climatic classification BSh), with short, warm to chilly winters and long, hot, dry summers. Winter temperatures average 12 °C (54 °F), while summer temperatures range from 26–30 °C (79–86 °F).

Marrakesh’s precipitation patterns, which are comparatively moist in the winter and dry in the summer, are similar to those of Mediterranean climates. The city is classified as having a semi-arid climate since it receives less rain than is expected for a Mediterranean environment.

7. The City’s Natural Terracotta Color of its Buildings and walls gave it the Name “Red City”

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The remarkable terracotta color of its walls and buildings earned Marrakesh its nickname, the “Red City”. This city’s red clay, sand, and water are locally sourced and give the city’s traditional construction methods their unique color. Beyond only being aesthetically pleasing, red symbolizes the city of Marrakech’s strength, vigor, and the people’s enduring spirit.

It also represents the city’s rich history. This cozy and welcoming color scheme is highlighted in the city’s architecture, which includes famous buildings like the Bahia Palace and the Koutoubia Mosque. The result is a singular and aesthetically striking urban landscape that never fails to attract tourists from all over the world.

8. Marrakesh’s Most Famous Landmark is the Koutoubia Mosque

There are many interesting sites in Marrakesh, a city rich in culture and history, but none is more famous than the Koutoubia Mosque. This majestic example of Almohad architecture stands as a testament to Marrakesh’s spiritual importance and rich history. The city skyline is pierced by its beautiful minaret, which is embellished with Arabic calligraphy and exquisite geometric patterns.

The Koutoubia Mosque is a symbol of the city’s lasting architectural and cultural legacy in addition to being a place of worship. The serene gardens that encircle it add to its charm, making it a must-see location for anybody taking in Marrakesh’s enchanted alleyways.

9. Djemaa el Fna Square is a Must Visit Location in the City

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The dynamic hub of Marrakesh, Djemaa el Fna, is a monument to the distinct energy and culture of Morocco. This famous area comes to life as a vast outdoor market with an enthralling mosaic of food stalls, street performers, and sellers.

The smells of smoky street food and the sounds of traditional music and dance fill the square as the sun sets, creating an exciting atmosphere. Beyond merely being a market, Djemaa el Fna offers tourists an immersive sensory experience that immerses them in Moroccan culture and reveals the nation’s plethora of customs and delicacies.

10. The Largest Traditional Market in Morocco is Found in Marrakesh

The biggest traditional Berber market, or souk, in the whole nation, is located in Marrakesh. The “Médina,” a maze-like bazaar, is a sensory paradise with colorful kiosks offering a wide range of goods, from handcrafted textiles to magnificent pottery, spices, and delicate jewelry. Narrow alleyways wind through this colorful marketplace.

Visitors interact with the kind and hospitable inhabitants while navigating the busy alleys and immersing themselves in a true Berber experience. The Marrakesh souk is more than simply a marketplace; it’s a cultural gold mine where the vibrant anarchy of Morocco’s Berber history coexists with Moroccan culture.

11. The City Boasts a Large Palace, Bahia Palace with 150 Rooms

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Situated in the center of Marrakech, the Bahia Palace is a captivating architectural marvel that embodies luxury and heritage. Built in the 19th century, this opulent Palace is proof of the superb creativity and workmanship of Morocco. Bahia means “brilliance,” and its elaborate tilework, beautiful stucco carvings, and lush, verdant gardens certainly live up to that name.

The 150 rooms and courtyards of the palace provide an engrossing trip into the past while presenting the life and legacy of the great vizier Si Moussa, who constructed the palace to personify Moroccan grandeur. Entering the Bahia Palace is like entering a realm of royal splendor and cultural importance.

12. Marrakesh has 11 Gates in its Ramparts

Within its impressive ramparts, Marrakesh boasts of about eleven old gates, many of which date back to the 12th century. These imposing gates, which are frequently referred to as “Bab” in Arabic, serve as both a symbol of the city’s magical realm and a testimony to its enduring past.

With their distinct architectural features and historical significance, each gate provides an insight into the rich past of this Moroccan treasure. Travelers looking for a taste of a bygone period will find Marrakesh to be an enticing location as visitors enter a domain where the past and current coexist.

13. The City is a Popular Location for Holding International Conferences

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Nowadays, Marrakesh is a well-known location for holding international conferences. It provides the perfect setting for these events because of its distinctive fusion of modern infrastructure, history, and culture. Notably, Marrakesh played home to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP22) in 2016, which was an important occasion in the worldwide effort to combat climate change.

The city is a popular venue for diplomatic and political talks because of its friendly atmosphere, first-rate conference facilities, and dedication to sustainability. In addition to highlighting Marrakesh’s importance on the world scene, sponsoring international conferences demonstrates the city’s capacity to unite disparate viewpoints in the face of urgent global issues.

14. Marrakesh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

As a city that masterfully blends history, culture, and architecture, Marrakesh is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This title, which was given in 1985, emphasizes how important the city is to the world’s cultural environment. The ancient old town of Marrakesh, known as the Medina, is a maze of narrow alleyways, regal palaces, and lively markets that have survived for centuries.

Architectural gems like the Bahia Palace and the Koutoubia Mosque showcase the magnificence of Moroccan history and craftsmanship. The fact that Marrakesh is recognized by UNESCO attests to its status as a living museum that preserves the past and provides tourists from all over the world with an enduring experience.

15. The Ancient Ramparts of Marrakesh Stretch for At least 10 Km

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Built-in the 12th century during the Almohad reign, Marrakesh’s towering ramparts encircle the medieval medina. These ancient defense walls, which are roughly ten km long and include portals leading to the inner quarters, are scattered across the city. Built of sandstone and mud brick, the walls are up to 19 feet high and 6 feet thick, with semi-circular bastions and towers.

For decades, they defended Marrakesh from foreign invaders, their presence commanding and formidable. The old ramparts, formerly an active stronghold, now serve as a visible barrier separating the new city beyond the medina’s meandering alleys. These medieval walls, which have withstood sieges, wars, and the passage of time, continue to play a significant role in defining Marrakesh’s historic identity.

16. Tourists get Henna Tattoos and Argan Oil as Souvenirs from Marrakesh

Marrakesh provides tourists with a unique opportunity to take home souvenirs of its vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery in the form of argan oil and henna tattoos. Travelers may embellish their skin with elaborate and significant designs with henna tattoos, an age-old North African custom that represents the region’s cultural legacy.

Concurrently, the elixir of beauty derived from the argan tree, recognized for its nourishing qualities, is argan oil. Renowned for its advantages for hair and skin, this “liquid gold” is a sought-after memento that offers a hint of luxury from Morocco that perfectly captures the spirit of the city, a tasteful fusion of history and scenic grandeur.

17. Marrakesh Boasts of a Vibrant and Lively Nightlife

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Marrakesh becomes lively at night with a plethora of exciting entertainment options. The streets come alive in the evening when the temperature drops. Open-air food vendors in the heart of Djemaa el-Fna square fill up with both locals and visitors. The local souks come alive at night with musicians, storytellers, and vendors.

Belly dancers sway to exotic music under flashing lights at nightclubs and pubs. Restaurants are packed with patrons savoring Moroccan food on patios lighted by candles. In the trendy Guéliz neighborhood, young people congregate at jazz cafés and cocktail lounges to mingle. After nightfall, Marrakesh shows off a more seductive side, with its vibrant medina and contemporary nightlife hotspots.

18. The Marrakshi Culinary Offers a Wide Range of Local Specialties

A culinary adventure unlike any other may be had in Marrakesh. Its cuisine is an explosion of flavors and scents, combining French, Arab, and Berber influences. Street food sellers in the busy medina offer a wide variety of Moroccan street fare, including pastilla, tagine, and couscous.

After dusk, Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s famous square, becomes a gourmet haven with a variety of mouthwatering food vendors. A customary treat is traditional mint tea, which is flavored with local honey and seasoned with herbs. A trip through tradition and creativity, Marrakesh’s cuisine is a feast for the senses and a highlight of any visit to this energetic Moroccan city.

19. Marrakesh is Home to the Saadian Tombs

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Hidden in plain sight, the Saadian Tombs in Marrakesh are a fascinating historical gem. These tombs, which date to the Saadian dynasty that controlled Morocco in the 16th and 17th centuries, were lost for decades before being found again in 1917. This necropolis, which is concealed behind modest walls, is a fascinating architectural treasure with elaborately decorated mausoleums, courtyards, and delicate tilework.

The tombs which are the last resting place of Saadian kings, are evidence of the dynasty’s wealth and skill in architecture. They are a must-see historical site because they give guests a rare look into Morocco’s royal history and because of their tranquil atmosphere, which stands in stark contrast to Marrakesh’s busy streets.

20. The City has its Distinctive Genre of Folk Music

The Moroccan folk music of Marrakesh has taken on a distinct flavor of its own. The guimbri lute, handclapping, and singing are all part of what is referred to as the Marrakchi style. When performers strum rhythmic patterns on this huge three-stringed lute, they produce a powerful percussion sound.

Large goat-skin drums known as tablas and finger cymbals known as qaraqeb are further components of Marrakchi music. The refrains of the songs are usually repeated by the vocalists in a call-and-response style.

Moroccan music is influenced by a wide range of genres, including Arabic poetry, African rhythms, and Berber tribal music. From Djemaa El Fna square to the vibrant weddings and festivals of Marrakesh, these fusion sounds permeate the atmosphere. With its lively tunes and poignant lyrics, Marrakchi music captures the history of the city as a crossroads of cultures.

With its colorful culture and lengthy history, Marrakesh offers a wealth of interesting things to do on a tour. The city’s charm is found in its distinctive fusion of tradition and modernity, which is demonstrated by its UNESCO World Heritage designation and its function as a venue for international conferences. Marrakesh is still a fascinating place that captivates and enchants tourists.